Fontaine-de-Vaucluse is a tiny Provençal village in the Luberon region of Southern France. The region is known for being one of the most stunning and scenic parts of a country known for its beauty. The spectacular countryside abounds with vineyards and orchards and is well-known for it’s many picturesque hill-top villages. Continue reading The French Village of Fontaine-de-Vaucluse
Tag Archives: Avignon
The French Village of Roussillon
Roussillon is considered to be one of the most beautiful villages in France and a “must-sees” in the Luberon region of Southern France.
One December day, we set off from Avignon to visit this picturesque town. As soon as you arrive in the village of Roussillon, you will be charmed by its atmosphere. Not surprisingly, the houses of the village are painted like an artist’s pallet from the pigments of the old ochre quarry. A glory of red, yellow, orange and pink façades. Continue reading The French Village of Roussillon
The French Village of Gordes
Gordes is truly stunning town and one of the jewels of the Luberon region of Southern France. One can’t help but use the word citadel to describe the city of rock built on – perched on – this mountainside, keeping vigil on the fields and farms stretched out below us.
We set off from Avignon one chilly January morning to visit this magical town. Below is a photo essay of the lovely little village of Gordes. Continue reading The French Village of Gordes
The French Village of L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue
L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue is an enchanting village in the Luberon region of Southern France. Little bridges cross the river and canals. Ducks and the occasional swan doze on the banks. Water wheels are still seen throughout the city with quiet, mossy blades delicately tracing out time in the old city, relicts from silk and paper manufacturing ages ago. Continue reading The French Village of L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue
Most Beautiful Villages in Provence
As we walk down the Rue de la République toward the Avignon Central Train station, the air is cool and crisp. We snuggle into our winter coats to keep warm. Christmas lights are strung over the road and as we pass several bakeries the smell is intoxicating. The early morning sky is lit with red and orange as we stand on the platform where we will catch the shuttle train to the TGV station on the outskirts of town, where our rental car waits. The ride from the central station to the TGV is quick – 10 minutes at most. Outside the front of the shining post-modern train station are several rental car companies. We’ve arranged a car with Europcar today – a cute little Renault Twingo.
Continue reading Most Beautiful Villages in Provence
Snapshot Our of Life in Avignon
Avignon is one of the major cities of Provence, in Southern France. It is the main city in the very popular Vaucluse region and is set on banks of the Rhône river. The city is steeped in history, painted with brilliant light, and crowned with gorgeous, Provençal blue skies. Avignon is simply lovely. Continue reading Snapshot Our of Life in Avignon
Avignon’s Famous Bridge
No visit to Avignon is complete without a walk on the Pont Saint-Bénézet, also known as the Pont d’Avignon. So, on a beautifully warm and sunny December day we made our visit. It was interesting to stand on this iconic landmark and the subject of the famous French song and nursery rhyme, Sur le pont d’Avignon. One can’t help but sing the words that date from the 16th century when you look out over the Rhône River. Like so many times during this trip, it felt like we were making a connection to history, however small and however brief those moments might be. Continue reading Avignon’s Famous Bridge
Palace of the Popes in Avignon
Standing in the courtyard in front of the Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes), it’s not hard to sense the power and influence that this building was meant to symbolize for the Catholic church. Its grand and imposing architecture spans 15,000 square meters and stands 50 meters high. Soaring into the blue Avignon sky, one wonders if its meant to give the impression that it’s reaching for heaven. Continue reading Palace of the Popes in Avignon
2014 in Review – Part 2
Our experiences in 2014 have been rewarding beyond our dreams. Taking the time to look back over all of our blog posts, Facebook posts, and photos has made it all seem even more unbelievable. It’s hard to believe all that we’ve done and the amazing places that we’ve visited. We are truly grateful to have spent the year exploring and learning together, living abroad, and making friends.
There was so much to cover in our year-end review, that we felt that our recollections needed to be broken up into two parts for easier reading. If you haven’t read Part 1, which covers January – June, then you can find it here. Otherwise, read on as we cover our adventures from July – December. Continue reading 2014 in Review – Part 2
Little Saints in Avignon
The crèche Provençale, also known as the Provençal crib or the nativity, has been around since the French Revolution. At that time, churches were forcibly closed and sacked. Both masses and nativity scenes were banned. In response, devout Christians created their own crèche to keep the tradition alive in their homes. They crafted “santons”, or little saints, made of clay. These figurines not only included the Holy Family, shepherds and Three Kings, but also the ordinary peasants of Provence.
In Avignon, many churches showcase a crèche and the city sponsors its own crèche. Normally, it is displayed at the Hôtel de Ville (town hall), but this year it was held at L’église des Célestins. The elaborate display was a joy to see. We loved all of the detail and creativity that went into it. Although, it deserved better lighting.
Meandering Family: Beyond the Nest 